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Pumpkin & Pickle Bears Sep 26, 2006

I am just about to finish a bear and I would like to put a row of bells around his neck. I'd like the bells to look old but I have had difficulty in finding some small ones. I've had to buy some normal gold bells, but of course they are 'new' looking. Has anyone got any tips on how I can age them? The only thing I can think of is giving them a rub with sandpaper.

I'd really appreciate any suggestions! :hug:

Bumpkin Bears Sep 26, 2006

Hi Gemma,

I just did a little search here and found this which may help -

http://www.teddy-talk.com/viewtopic.php?id=988

Hugs
Catherine
x

millie Sep 26, 2006

You can buy a bottle of antique stain.  I'm sure that is not exactly what it is called, but you can get it at Wal Mart.  It is sold with the bottles of craft paint.  I have used it in the past, and it worked real well to age the bell.

Laurie Sep 26, 2006

I am glad you asked this question Gemma as it is something that I have been wanting to know myself but haven't got round to asking.
Laurie :hug:

Tammy Sep 26, 2006

Here  are some sample gold craft bells that I aged using the vinegar and bleech method.  It is VERY strong so don't inhale any !!!   

1)The first bells are new ones not aged.

2) Second set of bells were in the solution for about 1-2 hours so are slighly tarnished.

3) Last set were in overnight and are now very rusty.  They need to be varninshed. 

Note:

  When the bells come out of the solution they are browish ,but not really corroded looking.  As was mentioned they rust more with time.  These 2 sets were aged about 1 month ago. 

I hope this is helpful.

P.S.  If you look in the bears & friends you'll see my  recent bear , Edward, is wearing some  that were in the overnight solution.

Pumpkin & Pickle Bears Sep 27, 2006

Thank you everyone!

Tammy - thank you SO much for sharing your pictures! I now know I only need to leave them in for 1-2 hours!

heartsez Sep 27, 2006

there are many places you can buy pre rusted bells by the way! most of the country magazines have co.'s listed that sell rusted stuff..an on the internet. i like the look of yours tammy..wonder if i can rust my mint tins that way? what percentage of bleach per vinegar do you use?  deb

Tammy Sep 27, 2006

I use equal parts vinegar and bleach .   I swear it is toxic - must be the chemical reaction, but what a smell !!!!!

heartsez Sep 27, 2006

mmm i bet!! thats why they  suggest you don't mix stuff in your toilet bowl and then hang your head over it and clean it! i juts saw a new magazine that did rust printing on fabric,,they spayed vingar on it and then laid the rusted whatever on the fabric until it imprinted,,cool looking!   so much talent out there! :) deb